Casey's to buy Illinois c-stores

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Ankeny, Iowa Casey’s General Stores, fresh from fending off a takeover by Canadian c-store operator Alimentation Couche-Tard, said late Tuesday it will acquire up to 19 convenience stores in Illinois owned by Harper Oil Co.

The c-stores, branded On the Way, will be rebranded as Casey’s. The deal is slated to close in early November; terms were not disclosed.

The remaining Harper’s stores in Illinois will remain under Harper Oil’s ownership.

Casey’s recently rejected Couche-Tard’s latest offer of $2 billion. 7-Eleven is offering $2.04 billion and Casey’s is said to be in continuing talks with the chain regarding a buyout.